AC Ajaccio Advance in League Cup After Penalty Shootout Triumph Over Lens
AC Ajaccio have booked their place in the next round of the French League Cup, overcoming RC Lens in a dramatic match that ended goalless after 90 minutes and was decided by penalties. Despite being reduced to ten men following the dismissal of Fauvergue in the 65th minute, the Corsican side held firm before triumphing 3-1 in the shootout.
The match, held under tense conditions, saw Lens dominate possession and create several chances, but their continued struggles in the final third once again proved costly. Ajaccio’s defensive resilience and goalkeeping brilliance made the difference.
Mandanda the Hero
The standout performance came from Parfait Mandanda, who delivered a near-flawless display between the posts. The younger brother of Marseille and France international Steve Mandanda was in inspired form, pulling off key saves during regular time—including efforts from Valdivia and Cyprien—to keep his side in the game.
His heroics continued during the penalty shootout, where he made crucial stops to secure a 3-1 win for Ajaccio. Mandanda’s composure and shot-stopping ability under pressure proved decisive and earned him deserved plaudits as the man of the match.
Ajaccio March On
For Ajaccio, the result is a significant boost, particularly given the numerical disadvantage they endured for much of the second half. It also marks an important moment in their League Cup journey, keeping their hopes alive in the competition.
Lens, meanwhile, will reflect on another missed opportunity, as their attacking inefficiency and inability to convert dominance into goals continues to haunt them.
Ajaccio now move on with renewed belief, buoyed by a resilient performance and the emergence of a new Mandanda making his mark on the French football stage.
